01Naval News2026-11-08
Naval Group to Build UCUV Underwater Combat Drone Demonstrator for French Navy (opens in a new tab)
Naval Group will build an Unmanned Combat Underwater Vehicle (UCUV) demonstrator for the French Navy, with sea trials set for 2028. The project, funded under a 2026 contract, advances from earlier studies and testing, focusing on autonomous navigation, energy management, and mission adaptability. The UCUV, over 10 meters long, is designed for intelligence, defensive, and offensive missions, with an open architecture for modular payloads and air transport via A400M. Funding for full construction remains pending, dependent on 2027 budget approval.